Boost for NHS Board as Staff Numbers on the Rise

SNP MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, Colin Beattie has praised hard working staff at NHS Lothian after the latest statistics showed increased staffing levels across Scotland - helping give patients the best possible care.

Midlothian and East Lothian are benefitting from an increase in the numbers of staff working for NHS Lothian – part of a Scotland-wide increase that has seen the NHS workforce reach record levels in 2018.

NHS Lothian had its full-time equivalent staff levels increase from 20,656.4 to 20,858.9 – a rise of 1%.
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Thanks to the SNP’s 2019/20 budget, NHS Lothian is set to receive an extra £57.2 million in spending power – a 4.1% increase on last year’s spending.

Commenting, SNP MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, Colin Beattie:

“Staff are the lifeblood of our NHS here in Midlothian and East Lothian – and it is welcome news there are record numbers working in our hospitals and surgeries across Scotland.

“NHS Lothian will now benefit from having even more dedicated and highly skilled staff in our hospitals and surgeries – ensuring people in Midlothian and East Lothian receive the world-class care that they have come to expect from our NHS.

“As a cherished public service the SNP will continue to ensure our health service is properly funded and fit for the future.”